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Electronic Power Steering

As gas prices continue to climb car manufacturers are looking for ways to increase fuel economy. Electronic Power Steering is one such way. By eliminating the hydraulic power steering pump a EPS system can provide up to a 2% increase over the conventional system. Another benefit of having a EPS system in the elimination the pump, hoses and fluid. This is also a decent reduction in weight.

EPS systems are becoming more popular among manufacturers partly because they can provide a more refined feel and can be fine tuned with computer software.

There are 4 major components in the EPS System.

  • The EPS control module which collects data and sends out necessary the necessary commands to the various components
  • The EPS motor. This is what gives the power steering feel to the driver.
  • The Reduction Gear. This is what connects the motor to the steering rack.
  • The Torque Sensor. This monitors the input from the driver and the output from the motor.

Since the EPS system is 100% electronic, power steering feel is not dependent on the engine for it’s power. The system works together by incorporating information from the Control Module, the Motor, the Reduction Gear and Torque Sensor. This enables the steering effort feel to change depending on terrain and speed.

As gas prices continue to rise and fuel economy standards are getting more strict look for more auto manufacturers to incorporate Electronic Power Steering.